Did You Know? The Wrong Tow Truck After an Accident Could Cost You Money

What Often Goes Wrong at the Scene
Many motorists assume that the first tow truck to arrive on scene has been sent by their insurer or roadside assistance provider. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. Independent towing operators often monitor emergency frequencies or receive tip-offs and arrive unsolicited, before an authorised operator does.

Allowing an unauthorised towing company to remove your vehicle can result in:

• Unexpected and inflated towing charges
• Excessive daily storage fees while your vehicle sits in an unfamiliar yard
• Delays in your insurer being able to assess the damage
• Disputes about who is responsible for the costs incurred
• Complications or delays in the finalisation of your claim

In some cases, recovering your vehicle from an unauthorised storage facility can cost thousands of rands, costs that your insurer may not cover.

What You Should Do Before Your Vehicle Is Towed
Before you allow anyone to hook up your vehicle, take a few minutes to verify the situation. Steps to follow at the scene:

• Contact your insurer or roadside assistance provider immediately
• Confirm the name and details of the towing operator they are sending
• Do not allow a tow truck driver to remove your vehicle until you have verified authorisation
• If possible, take photos of your vehicle, the scene, and any documentation presented by the tow truck driver

Be Prepared Before an Emergency Occurs
The best time to prepare for an accident is before one happens. When you are shaken and standing on the side of the road, it is not the moment to be searching for contact numbers. Make sure you know and have saved:

• Which vehicle tracking company your vehicle is registered with
• The emergency contact number for your tracking provider
• Your insurer’s claims contact number
• Your insurer’s roadside assistance number
• Your broker or financial adviser’s contact details

Saving these numbers on your phone today can make a genuinely stressful situation far easier to manage when every minute counts.

Your Tracker and Your Insurer Work Together
Many motorists are unaware that their vehicle tracking company and their insurer often work in coordination following an accident or vehicle theft. Your tracking provider may be able to assist with locating your vehicle and liaising directly with your insurer’s approved towing network.

This is why knowing your tracking company’s details is just as important as knowing your insurer’s number.

Preparation Is Often the Difference
A smooth claims experience is the result of being informed, being prepared, and knowing who to call.

This content is provided for general information purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Please consult a qualified financial adviser before making financial decisions.